Reflections on the Role of Philosophy of Education in Social Reconstruction: The Nigerian Perspective

Our society is currently facing startling issues of underdevelopment that requires enlightened understanding to overcome. Like the eras of renaissance, reformation, industrial revolution that gripped Europe, so we are challenged by globalization, ICT, insecurity, socio-political upheavals, natural disasters as well as marked malpractices characterized by breakdown in social consciousness, dysfunctional public utilities, reckless and disgraceful disposal of refuse on our highways and perversion of justice. Hence the inescapable role of philosophy to provide, convincing blueprint of social order sufficient enough to command the political commitment and will. Moreover, philosophy establishes theories of the nature of man, society and the world by which we order and interpret conflicting data of educational research and behavioural science using arguments and conceptual analysis. This paper lays bare that philosophy of education can usher in the desired social order and develop social construction that can enhance development. This is perfected through a criteria nurtured on the basis of philosophical principles that provide an enlightened understanding of current issues like ICT, globalization, MDGs, security challenges and a host of others.

Key words: Reflections, Philosophy of Education, Social Reconstruction, Nigerian Perspective